Torticollis in children

Abstract

Torticollis is a clinical symptom or sign and is not a specific diagnosis. Congenital torticollis presents in the first few months of life. Congenital torticollis usually is caused by congenital muscular torticollis, a contracture of a sternocleidomastoid muscle. Congenital muscular torticollis responds well to stretching, but occasionally surgical intervention is required. There are several other less common causes of congenital torticollis, including osseous abnormalities, ocular torticollis, and gastroesophageal reflux. Acquired torticollis usually presents between 5 and 12 yr of age but can present at any time. Acquired torticollis may be secondary to many different etiologies with consequences that range from insignificant to life-threatening. Treatment of acquired torticollis is focused on treating the underlying etiology. Most acquired forms of torticollis have a good prognosis once the underlying cause has been properly treated. © 2013 Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.